As the newest entrant to the FIA World Endurance Championship, Mercedes-AMG is making steady strides in the hands of Iron Lynx, according to ace driver Maxime Martin. The team, which recently switched from Lamborghini Huracan LMGT3 EVO2s to Mercedes-AMG LMGT3, has spent an impressive 14 hours testing the new machinery at the Lusail International Circuit.
Iron Lynx clocked over 1,500 kilometers for both their #60 and #61 LMGT3 participants, testing the vehicles under a range of lighting, asphalt, and temperature conditions. Martin, who migrated from BMW, voiced his optimism about the team’s progress. Expressing his thoughts on the change, he said, “Testing the Mercedes-AMG LMGT3 under different conditions in Qatar has been a valuable learning experience. We are confident that we are moving in the right direction and look forward to the Free Practice on Wednesday.”
Iron Lynx CEO and team principal Andrea Piccini echoed Martin’s sentiments, stating that the team had two productive days. “A new car demands some adjustments, but we are making headway. Our focus has mainly been on tyre and engine management.” Piccini also highlighted the team’s efforts to help their bronze drivers, Christian Reid and Claudio Schiavoni, acclimatize to the new car, while providing opportunities for Matteo Cairoli to get familiar with the track.
The team’s progress will be put to the test at the season-opening Qatar 1812 km race scheduled for Friday, February 28, an event that will mark a new era for Iron Lynx. The team is optimistic about achieving better results and enhancing reliability with the AMG package, especially given their past challenges with Lamborghini.
The upcoming 10-hour race is expected to be a high-profile platform for showcasing Mercedes’ much-anticipated WEC debut. The team’s performance at this event will be a crucial indicator of what lies ahead for them in the 2025 WEC season. This is especially pertinent as Iron Lynx continues to familiarize with the Mercedes machinery and gears up for their first race weekend of the year. Their journey thus far underscores the team’s commitment to learning, adapting and making significant strides in the world of endurance racing.
